An historic moment unfolded on Thursday as LGBTQIA+ couples gathered in Hua Hin to register their marriages, marking the first day of the Marriage Equality Law taking effect in Thailand.
The landmark legislation, which officially legalised same-sex marriage, grants equal rights to all couples, a milestone celebrated with vibrant events and ceremonies in the coastal town.
The celebrations, held as part of the “Hua Hin Grand Inter Pride 2025,” were attended by 23 same-sex couples who officially registered their unions at Bluport Shopping Mall. The Hua Hin District Registrar’s Office set up a dedicated service to facilitate the process, creating a warm and festive atmosphere as families, friends, and well-wishers joined in support.
Former Deputy Prime Minister Suwat Liptapanlop, along with Prachuap Khiri Khan Governor Sitthichai Sawatsee and other provincial leaders, participated in the event’s opening ceremony. Representatives from local tourism, business, and civic organisations, including Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul and Wasana Srikanjana, President of the Hua Hin-Cha-am Tourism Business Association, also attended, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
Celebrations aboard the Royal Blossom train
Earlier in the day, couples travelled to Hua Hin aboard the SRT Royal Blossom train, accompanied by friends and family. Five couples disembarked at the historic Hua Hin Railway Station and joined a ceremonial wedding procession to the venue. The event featured lively music and colourful decorations, reflecting the joy of the occasion.
“Today marks another significant step for Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan province in demonstrating acceptance and support for diversity, equality, and the value of love in all its dimensions, Suwat Liptapanlop said.
“The Hua Hin Grand Inter Pride 2025 is not just an event reflecting acceptance of gender diversity but also a means to enhance Hua Hin’s image as an open and welcoming city, creating activities that encourage everyone to truly live as themselves. Hua Hin is a city full of potential, not only as a world-renowned tourist destination but also as a place that can inspire and promote a Well-being Economy.
“Today’s event is part of driving an inclusive economy and creating new opportunities in the hotel, service, restaurant, and local activity sectors, helping to distribute income to local communities. Most importantly, it is a significant step toward positioning Hua Hin and Prachuap Khiri Khan province as a world-class tourist destination that is ready to welcome all groups of travellers.”
The venue, located on the first floor of Bluport Shopping Mall, offered a range of activities, including photo zones for couples, pre-wedding photography booths, and consultations on marriage registration. The first 23 couples to register received special privileges such as complimentary hotel stays and an evening celebration by Hua Hin’s beachfront, adding a romantic touch to their historic day.
Couples share their joy
Among the couples were M and Phong, who have been together for seven years. They expressed their happiness at finally being able to legally marry, sharing that this moment was a dream come true. For them, the new law represents progress and equality, granting them the same legal rights as heterosexual couples. They also noted their pride in Thailand becoming the first country in ASEAN to legalise same-sex marriage, describing the legislation as a reflection of the nation’s commitment to love and equality.
The new law, which was endorsed by royal decree on 25 September 2024 and came into effect today (Jan 23), replaces gender-specific terms in Thailand’s Civil and Commercial Code with gender-neutral language such as “individuals” and “spouses.” It ensures that same-sex couples now have equal legal, financial, and medical rights, including inheritance, tax benefits, and child adoption.
Thailand’s enactment of the Marriage Equality Law positions the country as a leader in LGBTQIA+ rights in Southeast Asia. While the nation has long been recognised as accepting of sexual diversity, the legalisation of same-sex marriage represents a significant policy shift, aligning the country with Taiwan and Nepal, which are the only other Asian nations to legalise same-sex unions.
The law’s implementation is also expected to enhance Thailand’s reputation as an international tourist destination, particularly among LGBTQIA+ travellers. Local businesses are optimistic that the move will bolster the economy by attracting visitors who see Thailand as both a wedding and honeymoon destination.
Hua Hin has positioned itself as a hub for LGBTQIA+ events, with the Hua Hin Grand Inter Pride 2025 serving as a significant milestone in the town’s efforts to promote diversity and equality.
